Smartphone games have revolutionized the gaming industry, making it more accessible and engaging than ever before. These smartphone games often come with enticing in-app purchases (IAPs) that promise to enhance the gaming experience. However, beneath the surface of seemingly innocent gameplay lies a world of sophisticated techniques used to encourage users to spend more on these games. One such technique is the Random Number Generator (RNG), which plays a pivotal role in determining game outcomes. In this blog post, we delve into the strategies employed by smartphone games to lure users into spending more on these games.

The Ambiguity of RNG in Games

RNG stands for Random Number Generator. In mobile games, RNG is often used to determine the outcome of certain events. These are events such as loot drops, battle outcomes, appearance of certain characters or items. However, RNG can also be used to manipulate users into making in-app purchases.
RNG is a controversial topic in gaming. Some people believe that it is a way to add excitement and unpredictability to games. While others believe that it is a way to exploit players. There has been increasing scrutiny on practices like loot boxes, with some critics likening them to gambling. The controversy stems from the fact that RNG can be manipulated to encourage in-app purchases. For instance, a game may use RNG to determine loot drops, making rare items exceedingly scarce. Players who desire these items may find themselves repeatedly spending real money on loot boxes, hoping for a favorable outcome. This element of chance creates a sense of urgency and excitement. This entices users to spend unintended and exorbitant amounts of money in pursuit of virtual rewards.

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The Multifaceted Approach

While RNG is a common element in many games, especially those featuring loot boxes, it’s not the only strategy employed to encourage users to spend more on in-app purchases. Mobile games often use a combination of techniques to encourage users to spend more on in-app purchases. These techniques include Psychological triggers, Anchoring, Bundled offers, Pay-to-win mechanics, etc. Let’s explore some of these techniques:

• Psychological Triggers: Mobile games are designed to tap into human psychology. They employ techniques such as limited-time offers, special discounts, and exclusive items to create a sense of urgency and the fear of missing out (FOMO). These triggers exploit user’s innate cravings for quick progress and exclusive rewards.
• Anchoring: Games often present a high-priced item before revealing a discounted alternative, anchoring the user’s perception of value. This makes the discounted offer appear more appealing, nudging users towards making a purchase. It sets a low anchor, making users more likely to be willing to spend more on subsequent in-app purchases.
• Bundled Offers: Bundling several items together at a reduced price can encourage users to spend more than they initially intended. These bundled offers often include virtual currency, items, or characters that are otherwise available separately. For example, a game might offer a bundle of in-app items for $19.99, which is a lower price than if each item were purchased individually.
• Pay-to-Win Mechanics: In some games, players who make purchases gain a significant advantage over non-paying players. This creates a pay-to-win dynamic, where spending money is perceived as the path to progress in these games. This makes it difficult for free players to compete, and it can encourage them to make purchases to stay competitive.

It is important to note that not all mobile games use these techniques. Some games are designed to be fair and enjoyable for all players, regardless of whether they make in-app purchases or not. However, the techniques described above are common in many popular mobile games.

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Real-World Examples: Case Studies

Several high-profile games have come under scrutiny for their in-app purchase strategies. Here are some instances where games have been accused of exploiting players:

• FarmVille: FarmVille, a popular social network game developed by Zynga, was criticized for its monetization strategies. The game was free to play, but players could spend real money to purchase in-game currency, which could be used to buy items that would improve their farms. Critics argued that this model encouraged players to spend more money than they might have intended, exploiting players’ desire to progress in the game.
• FIFA Ultimate Team: In this game, players are allowed to purchase packs of virtual trading cards. These cards can then be used to build a team of players. However, the odds of obtaining top-tier cards in these packs are exceedingly low, compelling players to spend more money in pursuit of their favorite players.
• Candy Crush Saga: This game is known for its use of “lives,” which are limited and required to play levels. Players can purchase more lives with real money, or they can wait for them to regenerate. However, the regeneration time is very slow, making players more tempted to purchase extra lives to keep playing.
• Star Wars: Battlefront II: This game was criticized for using “pay-to-win” mechanics. Players who made in-app purchases could unlock powerful characters and weapons, which gave them a significant advantage over other players. This led to complaints that the game was not fair to free players.
• Fortnite: This game has been criticized for its use of “loot boxes.” Loot boxes are containers that contain random items, such as weapons, skins, and dances. Players can purchase loot boxes with real money, but the contents of the boxes are completely random. This has led to complaints that loot boxes are a form of gambling.

User Empowerment and Awareness

While game developers employ a multitude of strategies to encourage in-app purchases, the final decision to spend money ultimately rests with the user. As consumers, we must be aware of these techniques and their potential to impact our spending behavior.
By understanding the psychology behind these strategies, users can make more informed choices when confronted with in-app purchases. This awareness can empower users to set spending limits, avoid excessive spending, and enjoy mobile games responsibly.

Smartphone games have mastered the art of enticing users to spend more on these games, by employing techniques like RNG and psychological triggers. While these strategies can enhance the gaming experience, they also raise ethical concerns regarding exploitation. It’s essential for both users and regulators to remain vigilant and informed about these practices to strike a balance between enjoying mobile games and avoiding unintended financial consequences.